Best Easy Risotto al Basilico Recipe

Fresh basil infused risotto captures the essence of Italian herb gardens. This vegetarian mediterranean dish is light, fragrant, and a healthy family dinner bursting with fresh flavor.

Cook 35 min Difficulty NORMAL 320 kcal
#vegetarian #mediterranean
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • Arborio rice 1.5 cups
  • Vegetable broth 4 cups
  • Fresh basil leaves 1 cup
  • Parmesan cheese 0.5 cup
  • Yellow onion 1 piece
  • Olive oil 2 tbsp
Seasonings/Sauce
  • Sea salt 0.75 tsp
  • Black pepper 0.25 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 55 g 69%
Protein 7 g 9%
Fat 7 g 20%
Serving size 265g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Finely chop the yellow onion and half of the fresh basil leaves; reserve the other half whole for garnish.

  2. 2

    Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until translucent, stirring frequently for even cooking.

  3. 3

    Add Arborio rice and stir continuously for 2 minutes over medium heat, ensuring each grain is coated with oil and heated through.

  4. 4

    Begin adding warm vegetable broth one ladle at a time, stirring gently and allowing the broth to absorb before adding more. Maintain a consistent simmer and repeat this process for 18–20 minutes until the rice is creamy but still al dente.

  5. 5

    Stir in chopped basil, sea salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute, then remove from heat and fold in Parmesan cheese. Let rest for 2 minutes before serving. Garnish with remaining basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The star ingredient is fresh basil, which infuses the risotto with a signature aromatic flavor and brings out the Mediterranean character. Arborio rice provides the creamy texture that defines risotto, while Parmesan adds savory depth.
Q. How do I control the heat while cooking risotto?
Keep the pan over medium heat throughout, especially when sautéing the onion and toasting the rice. Maintain a gentle simmer when adding broth, avoiding high heat to prevent overcooking and sticking. Stir regularly for even cooking.
Q. How can I prevent my risotto from becoming mushy?
Add broth gradually and stir gently, letting each addition absorb fully before adding more. The rice should be creamy and just al dente at the end of cooking—about 18–20 minutes with consistent heat and patience.
Q. How healthy is this risotto per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 320 kcal, with 55g carbohydrates (69%), 7g protein (9%), and 7g fat (20%). This makes it a light, vegetarian, Mediterranean meal suitable for nourishing family dinners.
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